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heater core flush

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Old Nov 11, 2011 | 07:25 PM
  #1  
ottis1986's Avatar
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From: iowa
Year: 1999
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Engine: 4.0 L
Default heater core flush

Was wondering when doing the flush, how much flow should there be out of the hoses when using a garden hose sprayer?? I flushed it and i do get flow out of both sides but when using the sprayer i get alot of backflow, and just a steady stream out of the other hose.

I plan on using CLR this weekend and was wondering how long to let it sit, since im sure its partially plugged based on info above and my best guess with low heat. especially when fan is turned past level 2.

Jeeps a 99 4L with new radiator water pump and hoses. temp gauge reads a little under 210 F.
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Old Nov 11, 2011 | 08:23 PM
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From: The Republic of TEXAS
Year: 1998
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Engine: 4.0L HO
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Might want to read the FAQ at the CLR site before u use it in your XJ, or any other auto.
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Old Nov 11, 2011 | 08:29 PM
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From: Colorado Springs, CO
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I used the preston radiator flush and then used my compressor to blow the water back through the heater core. Amazing results. So much muck came flying out. I actually have a heater that blows hot air now.
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Old Nov 12, 2011 | 08:30 AM
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Originally Posted by athenscj5
I used the preston radiator flush and then used my compressor to blow the water back through the heater core. Amazing results. So much muck came flying out. I actually have a heater that blows hot air now.
will that unplug my heater core? I got a bunch of junk out with just the water but i need to try to unplug it without replacing it.
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Old Nov 12, 2011 | 10:26 AM
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From: Colorado Springs, CO
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Yes. I got a good bit out with just the water as well, but I got a lot more out with the air.

I disconnected the heater hoses at the water pump and put water in the return heater hose (the lower heater hose I think) and then put the air gun into the hose. it fit perfectly and the air forced the water throught the heater core and out the other hose. It came out violently but shot mud everywhere. The I reversed the process by going through the inlet hose. And I switched this several times until I was satisfied with the clarity of the water. I am pretty sure youtube has some how-to videos if you aren't sure what I am talking about.

As for the Prestone flush...I am not sure how effective it was, but it was only a few bucks so I thought I would give it a try.
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Old Nov 12, 2011 | 02:29 PM
  #6  
ottis1986's Avatar
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well i think i fixed the heat, i used the air compressor this time and used the CLR i let it set for about 2 hours and then flushed it with water/air got it up to temp and it blows hot air, Not hot enough to singe you leg hair like ive heard of but enough to get it hot.
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Old Nov 12, 2011 | 02:33 PM
  #7  
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Run the prestone flush through the system for a while then change your coolant. Its been a long time since I used it but believe the instructions on it state to drive the vehicle for a while with the flush in the system.It will give the stuff more time to work.
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Old Nov 12, 2011 | 06:17 PM
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Well I think it just says to drain the radiator and empty the flush into the radiator. Then fill the rest with water. Run the engine to operating temp plus 10 minutes then drain and repeat with water then fill to 50/50 mixture.
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